NY84

NY84 charts the lives of three young people in the cultural scene of New York City in the early 1980s. Kate, Anton, and Keith are ambitious artists who thrive on pushing boundaries and passionately embrace their vocation, exploring new ways to depict their view of the world through their art.

Kate, played by Sam Quartin, is an ambitious photographer with a keen eye for iconic shots and a strong desire to capture the world as she sees it - raw, uncompromised, and exciting. Driven by her passion for her art, she has a profound, almost visceral need to make a name for herself in the cultural scene of this bustling city.

Anton, portrayed by Chris Schellenger, is a talented writer overwhelmed by both his creative inspiration and his self-destructive tendencies. Determined to make a difference through his words, he is continuously balancing on the edge of his passion and his personal demons.

Lastly, we have Keith, played by Davy J. Marr, a young man with clear musical talent that sends shock waves through the New York music scene. His ambition to break into the music industry is fueled by his will to express himself and his perception of the world through music.

Together, their lives intertwine as they navigate the cultural, artistic, and social upheaval that was NYC in the 1980s. Their journey explores the vibrant art scene, the undercurrents of sexuality, the influence of punk and new wave music, the evolving cultural landscape, and the emerging AIDS crisis.

As they each climb the ladder of their respective professions, they are faced with challenges and pains while living in a city that never sleeps. They each explore different aspects of living and working as artists in NYC, focusing not only on their craft but also on the relationships that they form with one another and the larger community.

Directed by Cyril Morin, NY84 is a visually stunning film filled with scenes that are a feast for the senses. The film beautifully captures the nostalgia and dynamism of the era, punctuated by vibrant colors and the city's architectural grandeur. The film's retro aesthetic perfectly encapsulates the grit and glamour of the art scene of 1980s New York City.

NY84 isn't just a film about art; it's a film about the artists, their struggles, their victories, their passion, and their despair. It does not shy away from presenting the harsh realities that these young artists face, both personally and professionally. Yet it also showcases their resilience and determination to stay true to their artistic vision amidst adversity.

Filled with intense performances by the lead actors, their portrayals do justice to the characters' complex personalities and their passion for their craft. Quartin, Schellenger, and Marr deliver performances that convey the essence of their characters, the drive that fuels their ambition, and the pain that comes with their artistic pursuit.

NY84 is a raw, unfiltered look at the lives of these artists, their individual struggles, their shared experiences, and the city they're trying to conquer. It captures the spirit of an era through the lens of the dynamic arts scene. It's an exploration of self-expression, creative adventure, fulfillment and despair, and ultimately, the courage to pursue one's passion against all odds.